(CNN) – Houston will become the largest city in the country to be governed by an openly-gay person when Annise Parker takes over Monday as the city's mayor.
Parker was sworn in over the weekend in a private ceremony as chief executive of the nation's fourth largest city. Public events are planned for Monday.
The 53-year-old three-term city controller has never tried to shield her sexual orientation in any of her campaigns for public office. Parker has been with her partner for 19 years and has two adopted children.
Parker won nearly 54 percent of the vote in a runoff election last month, topping former city attorney Gene Lock in the battle to succeed Bill White, who was term limited. White is now aiming for a higher office: Texas governor.
Atlanta gets a new mayor Monday as well, as Kasim Reed is sworn in. Reed, who topped Mary Norwood in a runoff election last month, replaces two-term mayor Shirley Franklin.
– CNN Deputy Political Director Paul Steinhauser contributed to this report
From CNN Politics
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Whoo hoo! Score a big one for "us".....now we just need some of those closeted Congressmen/Senators to come on out of the closet.
Makes you think that maybe there is hope for the southern states.
Congratulations Anise Parker! I'm so incredibly happy to see more gay politicians. Maybe one day soon there will be equality after all...
Doesn't matter about her sexual preference. What matters is her ability to run a large city. That, we shall see.
Good for her. In this day and age to decide whether or not to vote for someone based on sexual orientation is just rediculous. I am glad to see that the voters in Houston are not driven by hatred and ignorance.
Disgusting ... how "non-confusing" for the two children and how embarrassing for the city of Houston and the state of Texas.
This sort of ignorance and moral bankruptcy is the very reason we (this country) are in the shape we are in now and what has created an enormous blind spot in the judgment of so many as can be evidenced by the voting insanity that has given us the current president.
awesome. So happy for her and this moment.
By the way, it's "Annise" Parker and Gene "Locke".
sad........very sad...................
Houston, Texas gets an openly gay mayor... yep, the GOP sure is making a comeback.
Congratulations Ms Parker and best of luck to you!
Congratulations Ms. Mayor!!!!!!!
As long as she does a good job as mayor. The rest is none of our business.
Whats next Richard Simmons for president .
Way to go, Houston!
I am glad to see that the people voted for a person who is qualified
to do the job and not because of there personal issues I would rather
have someone be openly gay so I can respect who they are and they
can respect who I am
Why does her being gay have to continue to make headlines? I don't remember any headline on January 20, 2009 that said, Black President makes History. She hasn't made an issue out of it, Mr. Obama didn't either. Only CNN continues to make it an issue. It's tiresome and it's insulting.
Why should we care about Parker's orientation? Why is this news? If she's qualified for the job, and the voters chose her, her sexual orientation shouldn't be an issue. This is only news if one is trying to promote a social agenda.
How is his history? The fact that she chooses to be gay and was elected mayor is of NO importance.
Really CNN no wonder you are always dead last in the news ratings
This decade is the time to fully embrace diversity and demonstrate equal rights to all Americans in this country. I am hopeful that we the citizens can make this country the best for the people of all races, sexual orientations, religions, etc.
Whatever happened to lesbians? Happy (Gay?) New Year!
She's gay. Who cares? Good Morning CNN – it's 2010 – Why is a gay Mayor worthy of front page news?
Congratulations Annise. I am so happy I had the opportunity to help you get elected. Your 12 years as a dedicated civil servant have proven you to be the most qualified candidate to be mayor. My best wishes to you and your family.
She is not making history ans she is far from the first.
Check the facts
How about Mayor of Attleboro Massachusetts Kevin Dumas.
Congratulations to Houston and Mayor Parker!
Whatever her orientation, I trust that she will be a wonderful leader. (But I'm glad that Houston has reminded folks that TX does have some progressives!)
Sincerely,
An Austin Neighbor